Session 3: F.A.M.

Deuteronomy 6:6 7 – “These commandments… are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road…”

When I was young, I was reckless. I was out here getting high,  chasing women, and lying just to get what I wanted. And trust me, those choices cost me. I look back now and wish I had listened to the values my mother and father tried to teach me. Over the years, I’ve learned that those values do more than provide a solid ground for my kids; they are a foundation for me to return to again and again. It’s easy to remember F.A.M.: Forgiveness, accountability, and meaning. 

Forgiveness

As a pastor, I’ve seen many young people carry a heavy weight from being hurt by the adults who were supposed to care for them. Maybe someone embarrassed them, treated them unfairly, or ignored their pain. Over time, that hurt can harden into bitterness and become a lifelong grudge. I’ve been there, but I’ve also felt God lift that weight. Forgiveness is the key that sets you free.

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Accountability

Owning your mess without making excuses is hard. I grew up with the mindset, “Do as I say, not as I do,” but today that only creates distrust. This generation values authenticity and consistency more than authority. If you tell your kid to stay out of trouble but you break your own rules, they’ll notice the contradiction immediately. In the end, your actions will always speak louder than your words.

Meaning

Teens often chase popularity, possessions, or status to feel worthy, but adults do the same when we look for validation in social media, relationships, or success instead of in God. When we don’t prioritize a real relationship with Christ, we drift from the One who gives our lives meaning. The good news is that no matter how far we’ve wandered, Jesus is always near, offering love and purpose based on who He is, not what we do. Pursue Him, and you’ll live with true purpose.